Thomas A. Risse

Salem – Thomas A. Risse, 80, of Salem, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. Tom was born on April 9, 1944, in Newton, NJ, to the late Austin and Marie (Smith) Risse. He graduated from Newton High School and later from SUNY Delhi.

Tom proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged. In his youth, he was actively involved in 4-H and FFA. In his later years, Tom remained passionate about local sportsman organizations and wildlife conservation.

Tom worked for Agway in Salem and then CaroVail in Salem until his retirement.

He was blessed twice in love—first by his wife of 36 years, Charlotte Risse, and later by his longtime partner, Laurie York-Risse, both of whom preceded him in death.

Tom is survived by his daughter, Tonia Risse; his sister, Melinda Risse Nutter; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom’s bold and outgoing personality touched many lives, and he will be greatly missed by his countless friends and acquaintances.

A graveside service will be at 11 am Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Evergreen Cemetery in Salem.

A service will be at 8 am on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at the West Hebron United Methodist Church.  A reception will follow at the Salem Firehouse.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to the Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation, P.O. Box 241, Harborcreek, PA 16421, or to the Lorraine York-Risse Scholarship Foundation. For more information on donating to the scholarship foundation, please contact Tonia Risse.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Tom, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com.

The McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, Inc. in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements.

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